HIGH PERFORMANCE TURBO-HYDRAULIC COMPRESSOR

摘要

Use of the hydraulically driven device in a series configuration with a minimally restrictive turbocharger is defined which will allow a very responsive and powerful boosting system to reach boost levels of 4-5 pressure ratio (PR) to support and enable OEM engine downsizing trends. An electric supercharger is also considered. A hydraulic drive assists to increase the acceleration rate of a turbocharger impeller/turbine shaft assembly and provide a secondary means of driving the compressor impeller at lower engine speeds where exhaust gases alone does not generate adequate shaft speeds to create significant induction boost. The hydraulic circuit includes a dual displacement motor, which provides high torque for acceleration yet converts to a single motor for high-speed operation. When the exhaust driven turbine function allows compressor speeds, beyond which the hydraulic system can contribute, a slip clutch allows disengagement of the hydraulic drive. In an alternative embodiment, the hydraulic drive provides means of forced induction air alone.

主权项

1. An automotive forced air induction system operative to boost inlet air pressure of an internal combustion engine comprising:
a centrifugal compressor operative to compress engine inlet air; a hydraulic drive system for powering said system air compressing device; at least two positive displacement motors coupled to jointly drive the input shaft of said compressor; and at least one unidirectional clutch located between a motor output and the compressor allowing other motors to drive compressor overrunning said motor.